A Master Mind group can be comprised of two or more people aligned toward similar goals. Master Mind groups understand each others frustrations, resolve issues and use “been there” wisdoms. Confidentiality is always protected.

Master Mind groups meet on a regular basis. Generally, there are established, although not necessarily written, ground rules to participate. It’s important to establish criteria for new members and continued membership.

Within the group there is a focus on each individual in turn for a specific period of time. During this period, the member’s professional issues are addressed. As a group, there is collaboration, feedback and support.

Master Mind groups have long-term, in depth relationships, committed to each other’s success.

Consider joining or forming a Master Mind group to get you to the next level.

With support of a team behind you, as well as built in accountability, you will definitely get to your goals faster!

There’s an old proverb that describes gossip. Take a feather pillow. Stand on top of a mountain, tear open the pillow and release the feathers to the wind. Try to collect the feathers. Once released, you can’t gather the feathers, or retract your words. Reputations can be at stake.

While celebrity gossip is prevalent on all the newsstands, what’s the best way for a normal person to handle the situation when you find out others are talking about you in a negative way.

Gossip can undermine relationships, cause frustration and have painful consequences. While you can’t always control what other’s say, you can control your reaction.

At work:

1. Don’t perpetuate the situation

2. Consider confronting the source, if appropriate

3. Focus on the positive aspects of moving forward beyond the situation

4. Consider the best use of your time, energy and resources

5. Don’t email negative comments or inappropriate material

Companies that have a culture committed to sharing information usually have more stability in the gossip control department. Consider how you can perpetuate an atmosphere of trust, open dialogue and accountability.

Are you so dedicated to your colleagues that you can’t wait to get started at the office in the morning? Or is your workplace SO toxic that you dread going in every day?

True story. Joe, a highly valued senior manager, took a new position, sold his house and relocated to a new state for a promotion. Once in the role, Joe received more responsibility and more money, both of which he had wanted. The gotcha? Joe’s new direct manager, Sam, makes Joe’s life miserable and micromanages him. Many of Sam’s direct reports have quit or sought new assignments within the organization. And now Joe, too, is determined to find a new job.

The result? Brain drain and the potential loss of a highly regarded legacy employee.

When dealing with people you consider to be toxic, remember that you’ll always win more flies with honey than with vinegar. The best resource for brushing up on people skills is still the Dale Carnegie classic book: “How to Win Friends and Influence People.”

Each of us has a responsibility to play nice at work. We all know that one toxic person can upset the fine balance within the organization. Each of us is responsible for creating an environment where we can thrive as individuals and everyone succeeds.

Being the person other people want to work with can only benefit the company as a whole.

One theory says that a manager’s success is based on the production of the whole. Here, a manager who provides the training and resources required should be judged on the accomplishments of the team.

A second theory says that a manager’s success is determined by outside market conditions.

For example, a company specializing in paper distribution can be buoyed by outside forces including availability of raw materials and a distribution system. Or the mortgage market collapses. All forces are outside of an individual’s ability to control the outcome.

If sales increase or decrease, is it the manager’s doing or the external environment?

Being a manager can be a challenging position on many levels. Sometimes external forces dictate changes in the business climate. When possible, ride out economic storms.

The best recourse for all individuals in the work force is to build a solid personal professional network outside of your immediate work environment in case changes compel a modification in your work place.

Look for networking groups where you can actively participate, make friends and build a support team. Be generous when it’s not necessary, and it will always come back.